First hospitality job:
My first job was as a busboy/dishwasher
​
Age you started working in hospitality:
15
​
Your inspiration to begin working in hospitality:
I love travel, food, people and entertainment and I knew that working in the hospitality & tourism industry would give me all this.
​
My hospitality mentor:
I have had several coaches and mentors along my career journey in both the hospitality and the education sector. Each mentor gave me great advice which I followed diligently. Networking was a key component in my success as both a restauranter and educator.
​
What are your favourite aspects of your job?
Helping people achieve their lifelong dreams and goals. Meeting and talking to people from all walks of life. Travelling and experiencing different cultures and food. Now as a consultant, I can bring my years of experience and expertise to help my clients become successful.
​
What has inspired you to continue your career path in hospitality?
Everyday is different. After many years as an entrepreneur, educator, higher education administrator and consultant, I achieved my dream of getting my doctorate degree and writing a book on the issue of Labor Crisis in our industry and what needs to be done to recruit and retain millennials.
​
Advice for students interested in a career in hospitality:
Understand which career path you want to go on as the industry is more than hotels and restaurants. Network a lot as they will guide you in the right direction and volunteer so that you can meet more people in the industry. Don't be afraid to try new things and stretch the boundaries. Ask questions.